Diplo's Major Lazer performs historical show in Havana

08 March 2016

Newsdesk

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International superstars Major Lazer - the collaborative project of Diplo, Walshy Fire and Jillionaire - performed Sunday, March 6 to an estimated 400,000 fans at Tribuna José Martí in front of the U.S. Embassy in Havana, Cuba, delivering one of the most important concerts in recent history by becoming one of the first major American artists to play the country since diplomatic ties were restored between the U.S. and Cuba.

“This is the most important show we have ever done. Muchas Gracias Cuba,” said Major Lazer creator Diplo of the show.

As part of the cultural exchange, Diplo and Major Lazer met with Cuban music students and young, up-and-coming local DJs in Havana on Saturday, March 5. Several of these musicians opened the show today.

The concert, open to the Cuban public, was presented by the Musicabana Foundation in association with the people and government of Cuba.

“For as long as I can remember, Cuba has played an influential role on my love of music—Cuba has such a powerful cultural impact all over the world and for me, especially growing up in Florida, it became one of the biggest cultural centers for music to evolve from,” says Major Lazer creator Diplo.

“I was lucky enough to visit Cuba a few years back with my friends Calle 13 and during my four days there my mind was blown by the people, depth of culture and their way of life. Going back to perform in 2016 and to be a part of the culture once again is a huge blessing and I couldn’t be more honored to bring the Major Lazer project there.”

The show comes on the heels of a massive year for Major Lazer and the group’s creator, Diplo, who is nominated for Producer of the Year, Best Dance/Electronic Album for Skrillex and Diplo Present Jack Ü with Skrillex, and Best Dance Recording for “Where Are Ü Now” with Skrillex and Justin Bieber at the 58th Annual Grammy Awards.